New Ontario Workplace Safety Noise Regulation now in effect.
New Regulation 381/15: Noise – The noise regulation came into effect on July 1, 2016. Workplaces with noise levels over 85 decibels must control sound hazards and protect workers from hearing injury. The regulation also requires employers to train workers. This new regulation extends noise protection requirements to all workplaces covered by the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
How does this affect Ontario workplaces?
- Workers now have prescribed maximum time exposure limits to noise over 85 decibels.
- Employers are required to control noise hazards.
- Employers must provide workers with hearing protection and training regarding the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Noise may be hazardous in the workplace when workers need to raise their voices to be heard, if they notice they have ringing ears or problems hearing after a day at work. An idling truck or a food blender is equivalent to 85 decibels of sound.
Read more about Ontario Workplace Safety Noise Regulation here.
